University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix Program

The Hand Surgery Fellowship at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix offers an intensive 12-month program focusing on the management of various acute and chronic conditions related to hand and upper extremity surgery. This fellowship encompasses training in trauma, reconstructive surgery, congenital deformities, and extensive aspects of microsurgery, such as replantation and free tissue transfers. The program's faculty consists of twelve distinguished experts in the fields of hand/wrist surgery, shoulder/elbow surgery, plastic and reconstructive surgery, pediatric hand surgery, and musculoskeletal oncology, ensuring comprehensive exposure and learning opportunities for fellows 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

Fellows engaged in this program benefit from a carefully constructed and flexible curriculum designed to meet varied individual needs. The structure ensures that fellows can graduate at competently high levels across all aspects of hand, upper extremity, and microsurgery 3. The program collaborates closely with the CORE Institute's shoulder and elbow fellowship program, giving fellows the opportunity to learn from nationally recognized shoulder experts 3.

Application Process

The Hand Surgery Fellowship program is open to graduates from ACGME-accredited residency programs or RCPSC-accredited and CFPC-accredited residency programs in Canada, specifically in orthopaedic, plastic, or general surgery. Successful candidates must demonstrate research productivity, competitive USMLE scores, and strong letters of recommendation alongside professional goals and interpersonal skills which are crucial during the selection process 2. The program adheres to the NRMP Match structure, and an application is required to be submitted through the ASSH universal application process. For the 2025-2026 academic year, applications must be submitted by November 15, 2023 2.

Competitiveness and Diversity

This fellowship attracts a highly diverse group of fellows from across the United States and Canada, including international candidates engaged primarily in research and clinical observational experiences. The program sees a mix of fellows drawn towards either academic or community practices, fostering an enriching environment for knowledge exchange and professional growth 3. Furthermore, the fellowship strongly positions itself as competitive, catering to a range of backgrounds and training, which enhances the overall learning experience.

Training Sites and Facilities

The fellowship includes training opportunities at the Banner – University Medicine Orthopaedic and Spine Institute, where comprehensive musculoskeletal care is provided. The institute specializes in numerous areas, including hand and upper extremity issues, offering fellows hands-on experience managing a variety of conditions from acute trauma to elective surgeries 4. Facilities at the CORE Institute offices are state-of-the-art, with multiple locations equipped with advanced imaging technologies, comprehensive outpatient care resources, and in-house rehabilitation services, reflecting a commitment to fostering a functional learning environment for fellows 4.

Visa Support

The program provides visa sponsorship for international medical graduates. Typically, the program may sponsor J-1 or H-1B visa types, accommodating fellows from various international backgrounds who meet the fellowship’s educational and professional criteria.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Among the unique features of this fellowship is the program's relatively young status in conjunction with its robust curriculum and faculty training. Fellows have expressed high satisfaction with the individualized learning experiences that the program affords, which aids in developing proficiency across distinct surgical areas. Additionally, the faculty’s collective collaboration ensures a holistic approach to training 3.